Today is the end of 2024, and on this occasion, Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her crew are preparing to celebrate a unique New Year celebration on the International Space Station (ISS). This team will experience sunrise and sunset 16 times while orbiting the Earth.
Unique New Year Celebration on ISS
At present, the spacecraft is orbiting the Earth at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometers and revolves around the Earth once every 90 minutes. Thus, from the night of December 31 to January 1, they will have the unique experience of celebrating New Year 16 times.
Long missions and unique experiences
Sunita Williams, who is the commander of the ISS, had launched an eight-day mission in June 2024 aboard the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. However, due to technical problems their mission has been extended to March 2025.
Special events and engagements
On New Year’s Eve, the astronauts will enjoy a special feast featuring fresh foods sent from Earth. Apart from this, they will also connect with their family and friends through video calls, so that their mental and emotional health is maintained.
holiday cheer in space
Recently, Sunita Williams and her crew also celebrated Christmas, decorating the station and preparing special meals, while also contributing to scientific research.
inspiration from space
Sunita Williams has previously described space as her “happy place”. His unique experience and positivity makes the achievements of human space exploration even more unique. These activities to celebrate the New Year have not only highlighted the challenges faced by astronauts, but also shown that no matter how unusual the circumstances, there can always be a way to find joy and celebration.
